Shower doors can be made in different designs and from different materials. The most popular option is glass, which looks impressive. Such doors will help maintain the volume of the room and will not overload the space. Over time, this material does not deform or deteriorate under the influence of high humidity. It retains its original static properties for many years.
Shower doors: features and types
Types of shower doors
There are several types of shower door locking methods, each of which has certain advantages and disadvantages. It should be noted here that the simpler the opening mechanism, the longer the product will last.
Swing
A shower stall with a hinged door is a common option. It can open both inward and outward. Some models do this in both directions. Such a door can have one or 2 doors. Single-door models, as a rule, open only from the front, while two-door models also open inward. The fastening for shower doors of this type are hinges. Their advantage is durability and resistance to mechanical damage. The hinges will not pop out and be damaged during operation, even if the door is pushed.
In this case, different types of doors can be used. They can be semicircular, oval, square or rectangular. They are characterized by versatility. They look aesthetically pleasing in a variety of designs. The only disadvantage is that it will require additional space to open. Hinged shower cabins are usually not installed in small bathrooms.
Swing
Sliding
According to the opening mechanism, sliding shower doors are similar to sliding wardrobes. In this situation, the doors move along special guides. The number of doors can vary from 1 to 4. The fewer doors there are, the more spacious the shower stall will be, but the structure will be less durable.
If we compare sliding glass shower doors with hinged ones, the latter are more reliable in operation. The choice in favor of the former is due to the need to preserve space. They do not require additional space to open. When choosing, it is recommended to focus on those models that have metal roller guides for shower doors. They are very durable, which cannot be said about plastic panels.
Sliding
Folding
This is the best option for small spaces. They open by turning the sash. There are models on sale that rotate in one or two directions. Structures are manufactured that have several sashes. They are folded in parallel.
Even though the presented shower cabins are characterized by excellent ergonomic properties, they require free space to open. The doors mustn’t come into contact with other elements in the bathroom.
Folding
Rotating
Installed on static panels on magnetic hinges. The size of the glass revolving shower door determines the rotation diameter. Most often it is 1.2 meters, but there are also smaller models – 90 cm. Cabins in which revolving doors are installed can be made with or without a frame. The former are distinguished by the use of thinner glass, but their strength is lower. The cost of frameless models is higher, but they are more reliable in operation.
“Accordion” doors
This type of shower door has a unique opening mechanism. Several parts are folded into one plane. These doors are also called “book”. A feature of the presented design is the ability to leave it half-open. For example, to ventilate. The canvases will not take up much space. Used primarily for corner cabins.
The disadvantages include relatively low thermal insulation characteristics since this mechanism is far from perfect.
Accordion doors
Material of manufacture
Despite the existence of a large number of materials for the manufacture of shower doors, the most common are the following:
- Strained glass. Thanks to heating to a high temperature and instant cooling, the presented material has become durable and resistant to mechanical stress, high humidity and temperature fluctuations. Even if such glass is damaged, the risk of injury is minimized, since the fragments will not have sharp edges.
- Triplex. An expensive type of tempered glass, the cost of which is justified by its improved performance properties. It consists of several layers of glass, between which there is a polymer film. A separate advantage of the triplex is its safety. The fragments do not fly apart but remain on the layer.
- Organic glass. This option is similar in appearance to the hardened one but is less durable. If handled carelessly, chips and scratches may appear on its surface. Another disadvantage is easy ignition. The above makes it less attractive compared to other types of glass.
- Plastic. It is based on polystyrene, which is easy to clean and has a relatively small thickness and weight. More expensive plastic shower doors are additionally coated with polymers, so water does not linger on the surface and does not leave streaks. The material is not wear-resistant. The impact may cause cracks and dents. If you like to take hot showers, then this option is not for you. When exposed to high temperatures, deformation occurs. Therefore, plastic panels are not compatible with cabins that have a built-in steam generator or sauna.
The choice of one option or another depends on what you want to get. The most common type is tempered glass doors. They are affordable and practical to use.
Material of manufacture
Shower door sizes
You need to choose the size of the door for a shower in a niche based on the width of the opening. For other options, you need to rely on the dimensions of the cabin and the amount of free space. You can choose standard models or have them made to order.
Typical shower door dimensions are as follows:
- 70×200;
- 60×235/240/215;
- 80×200.
Modern production does not stop and continues to develop, so today you can purchase a door according to individual parameters.
Door fittings and components
Door fittings need careful selection, just like other plumbing fixtures. It is not recommended to purchase Chinese parts, as they break down relatively quickly. Much attention should be paid to the installation process, avoiding overtightening the bolts and nuts. An incorrect installation approach may damage the panel.
Among the components and fittings for shower doors, the following stand out:
- Loops. It is necessary to check what maximum load they can withstand.
- Pens. They are made in different types and shapes. You can purchase patterned handles or staples. Rotary openers are excellent in use, ensuring that the door is tightly pressed. Handles are installed either on both sides or only on the outside.
- Rollers for shower doors. This part is installed for sliding models. Provides a smooth ride.
- Connections or holders that give the booth a complete look. Selected individually for each design.
- Seal for shower doors. Prevent water seepage during hygiene procedures.
- Decor. This includes special or decorative stickers that are placed on the door panel.
Shower Door Design
Glass shower doors are popular due to the variety of design options and practicality of use. The most common design solutions are as follows:
- Matte finish. Performed by sandblasting. The effect is achieved using a special device, but there are also chemical components that allow you to obtain a matte finish.
- With tinting. The presented processing allows you to obtain canvases of various colours. The choice depends on the interior design.
- With ornament. The best option is when it is applied as part of the manufacture of custom door systems.
- With stained glass. This is a method of creating canvases where, as a rule, pre-prepared fragments are laid out and fused under high temperatures.
Shower door decor can also be done at home using special paints or moisture-resistant stickers. However, the modern market is oversaturated with a large number of different design solutions. For example, you can buy doors for a shower cabin – folding, hinged and others, with the addition of chrome-plated metal elements.
Shower Door Design
